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A whopping six members of The Only Way Is Essex cast are facing the axe from the hit ITV2 reality show as show bosses set out plans to improve the programme before its return this autumn. The third series of the Essex-based show will air from September, but before a lot of the excess cast are culled.

According to The Sun, only original cast members have been guaranteed spots in the next series with bosses keen for "new blond" on the reality show.

Those "at risk" include Maria Fowler, Lauren Pope, Joey Essex, Chloe Sims, Gemma Collins and Mick Norcross, all of whom joined the programme during the second series earlier this year.

Sam Faiers, who is set to stay on the show, said: "It's really sad but they have said they won't be signing up all the people who were in the second series again."

She added: "I hope Joey stays. But he would be OK off the series anyway."

Sam also revealed that some cast members - including Gemma Collins - wanted out of the show anyway. She told the tabloid: "Gemma was so humiliated on the last show I don't know if she even wants to come back. We've all been trying to call her and text her but it is as if she's gone into hiding."

Show favourite Mark Wright may still have his place on the ITV reality hit, but his mum may be on her way out. A source said: "Mark's mum was a complete nightmare and producers were fed up with her throwing her weight around.

"Nobody should take it for granted that they are returning."

Programme makers have already advertised for new characters in the area.